The cricketing world breathes a sigh of relief as Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake thanks Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif for clearing the path for the India-Pakistan T20 World Cup 2026 showdown in Colombo. Slated for February 15, 2026, the match was nearly derailed by political crosswinds.
Pakistan’s about-face came after stiff ICC resistance to their boycott threat, sparked by Bangladesh’s tournament exclusion and replacement by Scotland. Dhaka’s plea to move games to safer Sri Lankan soil was shot down, prompting Pakistan’s show of support.
On X, Dissanayake wrote glowingly, ‘Thanks to PM Sharif for keeping the game alive we cherish. Happy the anticipated India vs Pakistan match in Colombo’s T20 World Cup sticks to the plan.’ He nodded to Sri Lanka’s co-hosting duties and the ICC’s diligence, while reminiscing about 1996—when India and Pakistan braved security jitters to play in Colombo, a nod to shared history.
A Pakistani government release confirmed: ‘Considering dialogues and allies’ requests, we instruct our team to take the field on the scheduled date.’ With the squad in Sri Lanka prepping for a USA clash Tuesday, focus shifts to this blockbuster.
Long-form rivalries like this define T20’s global pull, drawing millions and testing mettle under floodlights. Sri Lanka’s facilitation role cements its stature, ensuring the 2026 event launches with fireworks.